Gamma hydroxybutyrate is a chemical compound found in nature and the nervous system that acts on the brain to create feelings of relaxation. It’s considered a central nervous system depressant.
Dr John Olah first synthesised gamma-hydroxybutyric acid at Johns Hopkins University in 1959. He named it after his wife, who took vitamin B6 supplements containing gamma-aminobutyric acid, which he thought might be useful for treating mental illness. The name comes from its molecular formula: C4H9O3.
GHB is similar to GABA, but it acts more quickly on receptors than GABA does. This makes GHB a powerful sedative. In fact, GABA is one of the most important inhibitory neurotransmitters in the brain.
GHB is used medically to treat narcolepsy, alcoholism, depression, anxiety disorders, and insomnia.
It is also used recreationally as a party drug. It is commonly referred to as liquid ecstasy because of its euphoric effects when consumed.
GHB (gamma-hydroxybutyrate) is produced naturally in the human body in very small amounts. GHB is a central nervous system depressant. When taken as a recreational drug, and especially when taken in combination with alcohol or other drugs, GHB can be extremely dangerous.
GHB is a drug that can treat depression, anxiety disorders and insomnia. It is also known as the date-rape drug because it makes people feel euphoric and disinhibited. The effects of GHB last for up to three hours after use.
GHB Addiction is a serious problem that requires immediate attention. Call us on 0800 999 1083 to discuss treatment options.
GHB and related substances are being reclassified from class C to class B following their use in high-profile rape cases. GHB has been classified as a Class C drug since 2003 under the Misuse of Drugs Act (1971). As a Class B drug, it is illegal to possess it without a prescription, to supply or produce it without a licence. If prepared for injection, it becomes a class A substance. Possession of class B drugs carries a maximum sentence of 5 years imprisonment and a fine.
GHB is typically swallowed, but it can also be injected, insufflated or inserted rectally.
There are two main types of GHB:
GHB has many street names, including:
GHB works by increasing the amount of GABA in the brain. GABA is a natural substance that normally suppresses nerve cell activity. When GABA is present in high enough concentrations, it blocks the transmission of nerve signals through the cells. By blocking nerve transmissions, GABA reduces the intensity of pain, anxiety, and stress. In addition, GABA is responsible for maintaining the balance between wakefulness and sleep.
When GHB binds to the GABA receptors, it causes them to open more easily. This allows more GABA to enter the brain, which results in less decreased nerve signalling.
In addition to reducing nerve activity, GHB also alters the brain’s chemical makeup. GHB increases levels of dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that helps control movement, attention, and pleasure. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that controls mood, appetite, sleep, and sexual desire. Norepinephrine regulates heart rate, breathing, and blood pressure.
The increase in these chemicals means that GHB users feel happier, calmer, and more focused.
When the GABA receptors are activated, they inhibit the release of glutamate, a chemical messenger involved in transmitting nerve impulses. Glutamate is released during times of high stimulation, such as when we experience extreme fear, excitement, anger, or physical pain. Inhibiting the release of this chemical causes less intense feelings of emotion and reduces the intensity of our reactions to stimuli. This means that GHB users will feel a sedative effect when using this drug.
Gamma hydroxybutyrate is a naturally occurring substance found in nature, the brain and the spinal cord. It’s also produced by the body when it breaks down glucose, which is why it can be used as an energy source for those who are fasting or have low blood sugar levels.
It has been shown to help reduce anxiety, stress, depression, and insomnia.
It is also being studied for its potential in treating epilepsy, Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and Tourette syndrome.
GHB is also being researched for possible uses in pain management and to treat sleep disorders.
GHB addiction is a serious problem because it leads to severe health problems. This withdrawal symptoms when the person stops using the drug. Withdrawal usually occurs within 24 hours of stopping GHB use. Symptoms include headache, sweating, shivering, chills, tremors, irritability, restlessness, trouble sleeping, and increased hunger. These symptoms often last for several days.
If you think you might be addicted to GHB, talk to your doctor about treatment options. Your doctor will want to ensure that you don’t have any underlying medical conditions before prescribing medication. They may recommend counselling or therapy to help you cope with the effects of the physical and psychological addiction of GHB.
Don’t go through the process of recovery alone. Treatment providers can answer your questions. Get in touch with one today.
Call 0800 999 1083 today!
GHB is very dangerous to those who use it regularly. Repeated use of GHB produces tolerance, meaning that the body needs higher doses to achieve the same level of intoxication. Eventually, users need larger amounts of GHB to experience its effects. The result is that GHB abusers begin to experience severe side effects from their regular use. They may develop headaches, nausea, vomiting, and dizziness. If GHB use continues, users can suffer liver damage, seizures, coma, and even death.
GHB addiction can cause similar symptoms to alcohol addiction. Users experience withdrawal symptoms when they stop using GHB. These symptoms include insomnia, depression, anxiety, agitation, and restlessness. Many users report feeling irritable, depressed, and anxious during this time.
GHB addiction affects your brain chemistry. The drug changes the way chemicals called neurotransmitters work in your brain. These neurotransmitters help regulate mood, emotions, thoughts, and behaviour.
GHB is a powerful sedative that affects the central nervous system. Because it depresses the central nervous system, GHB can make some people drowsy and slow to react. Its effects last longer than those of alcohol. GHB is highly addictive.
The most obvious sign of this drug’s abuse is that it causes you to lose control over your body. Your heart rate and blood pressure will increase, and you might even experience shortness of breath. You may feel like you’re having a panic attack or experiencing severe anxiety.
People who use GHB often develop tolerance to the drug. Tolerance occurs when the body needs more substance to achieve the same effect. The higher the dose of GHB that a person takes, the greater the tolerance will be. Eventually, the person will need to take larger doses to get the desired effect.
Tolerance to GHB also leads to physical dependence. Physical dependence occurs when the body begins to crave the drug.
A person who develops physical dependence will experience withdrawal symptoms when he stops taking GHB. These include irritability, insomnia, nausea, muscle aches, vomiting, sweating, tremors, restlessness, diarrhoea, headaches, hallucinations, agitation, and seizures. Some people experience severe withdrawal symptoms right away.
The term “psychological dependence” (or psychological addiction) describes a person who has developed a strong emotional attachment to an illegal drug or substance. This type of drug addiction can be extremely difficult to overcome, requiring professional help from a qualified therapist.
Psychological dependence on GHB causes a person to have a strong desire to continue using it despite negative consequences. If the person continues to take GHB, they will develop a drug addiction.
Psychological symptoms of GHB addiction can include:
GHB addiction can affect your behaviour. Some people who abuse GHB have trouble sleeping. They may stay up all night, sleep for only a few hours, or wake up feeling groggy. Others may spend their days doing little more than sitting around watching TV or playing video games.
Behavioural symptoms of GHB addiction may include:
Some of the symptoms of GHB addiction include:
GHB Addiction is a serious problem that requires immediate attention. Call us on 0800 999 1083 to discuss treatment options.
Speak to us on 0800 999 1083 to discuss treatment options and to find the best alcohol rehab centre.
GHB is highly prone to abuse and misuse. If you have a history of substance abuse, you might be at greater risk of developing GHB addiction. The following factors increase your chances of becoming addicted to GHB:
There are two main types of factors that contribute to the development of GHB addiction. Environmental factors refer to things outside of the individual’s control. Examples of environmental factors include living in an area where GHB is readily available, having access to a large supply of GHB, and being exposed to advertising promoting GHB use.
Genetic factors include personality traits and mental disorders. Personality traits are strongly linked to the development of addiction. For example, individuals with antisocial personalities tend to engage in risky behaviours such as binge drinking and drug use.
Anyone who uses GHB is at risk of developing a GHB addiction. Those who are most at risk include:
GHB Addiction is a serious problem that requires immediate attention. Call us on 0800 999 1083 to discuss treatment options.
GHB can cause serious health problems when abused. GHB addiction can be fatal.
The side effects of GHB depend on the dose and method of ingestion. Oral doses of GHB typically cause nausea, vomiting, dizziness, drowsiness, headache, confusion, and blurred vision. Intravenous doses of GHB can cause hallucinations, seizures, coma, respiratory arrest, and even death.
One aspect of GHB addiction is its ability to impair judgment. When GHB enters the body, it binds itself to certain proteins in the brain. This binding causes GHB to act as a natural chemical messenger, sending messages throughout the body. Over time, this binding causes the brain to release less dopamine, making users feel depressed and lethargic.
Another danger of GHB abuse is that it can cause liver damage. Because GHB is metabolised differently in different body parts, it can build up in the blood and cause the liver to work harder than normal. This can result in severe liver damage or even Cirrhosis.
If you take GHB regularly over time, this will result in liver cirrhosis. Cirrhosis of the liver is a condition where scar tissue forms inside the liver. Scar tissue cannot function properly. It leads to problems with digestion and absorption of nutrients. Liver failure can occur if cirrhosis goes untreated.
In addition to causing liver damage, GHB can also damage your kidneys. The kidneys filter waste products out of the blood. GHB blocks the ability of the kidneys to do their job. This results in high levels of ammonia in the blood. High levels of ammonia can cause kidney damage. A person who abuses GHB over time will likely develop kidney disease.
GHB addiction can also cause heart problems. Users often drink large amounts of water during GHB binges because they are so thirsty. This leads to dehydration. Dehydration puts extra stress on the heart, causing it to beat faster and pump harder. Over time, this can lead to heart failure.
GHB addiction also affects the lungs. This drug constricts blood vessels in the lungs and reduces oxygen flow. This can cause shortness of breath and even respiratory arrest.
GHB is a GABA agonist. This means that it activates the same receptors that GABA does. Therefore, GHB can have similar effects as other drugs that activate GABA receptors. For example, GHB increases the amount of GABA in the brain. This increase in GABA activity can make people more relaxed and calm. However, GHB also decreases the amount of glutamate in the brain. Glutamate is another type of neurotransmitter. This decrease in glutamate activity can make people more sensitive to pain.
GHB also interacts with many types of medications. Some medications interact directly with GHB. Others affect the way GHB works in the body. For example, some antidepressants can cause GHB levels to rise. Other medications can interfere with the metabolism of GHB. These include antacids, antihistamines, and diuretics.
GHB and alcohol are both sedative and depressant substances. When the two substances are combined, these effects are amplified and could be extremely dangerous. Mixing GHB with alcohol increases the chance of death.
GHB Addiction is a serious problem that requires immediate attention. Call us on 0800 999 1083 to discuss treatment options.
GHB overdose can be fatal. The risk of dying after using GHB increases dramatically if someone mixes it with another substance. Mixing GHB with other drugs such as cocaine, methamphetamine, or MDMA can increase the chances of death.
GHB is dangerous enough on its own but can quickly become fatal if mixed with other Depressants, including alcohol and Benzodiazepines. Mixing GHB with those substances increases your chances of overdose and death. GHB, alcohol and Benzodiazepines have sedative and depressive properties. These effects are exacerbated when these substances are combined with GHB, and the results could be extremely deadly.
Because GHB is simple to make and does not need any special chemical knowledge, much of the GHB consumed in the UK is produced in small-scale operations rather than large-scale factories. As a result, the grade and purity of GHB accessible on the street might vary greatly from one dose to the next, increasing the danger of overdosing.
GHB can be lethal. People who mix GHB with other substances are especially vulnerable to suicide attempts.
GHB is a depressant. Depression makes it difficult to think clearly. Someone who is depressed may not realise that they want to kill themselves. They may just want to stop feeling sad. This is when a person who uses GHB regularly could harm themselves.
If you suspect that someone is suicidal, call the emergency services immediately. Do not leave them alone. Be supportive. Show concern for their well being.
Mental health issues are common co-occurrences with GHB addiction. Many people who use GHB suffer from depression and/or anxiety. Some people who use GHB also struggle with bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, eating disorders, and more.
If you are struggling with these problems, it is important to seek treatment.
Some people who use GHB have a dual diagnosis. The most common dual diagnosis involves a person who suffers from substance use disorder and a mood disorder. Dual diagnoses are very serious because they require special attention and treatment.
People who use GHB are at high risk of developing mental health problems. GHB is a powerful depressant. It can cause severe depression. And depression, in turn, can make it harder to quit using GHB. These people are at risk of having a major depressive episode. They may lose interest in activities they used to enjoy. Their depression may worsen. They may feel hopeless and may begin thinking about harming themselves. They may even attempt suicide.
People who use substances like GHB often don’t recognise the signs of a mood disorder until it’s too late. So, it’s important to be aware of the warning signs of depression. People who use GHB regularly may notice that they are having trouble sleeping. They may find it harder to concentrate. They may feel irritable. If you’re struggling with your mental health, it’s important to seek professional help as soon as possible. Call us on 0800 999 1083 to discuss treatment options.
Many people who use GHB do so as a coping strategy. This means they use GHB to manage stress, anxiety, pain, or other uncomfortable emotions. When someone self-medicates with GHB, they do not intend to get addicted. But, over time, GHB becomes a part of their life.
When people use GHB as a coping strategy, they tend to use it more frequently than people who use the drug recreationally. When people use GHB as an emotion management tool, they typically use it alone. They might drink a glass of wine or take a hot bath after taking GHB. Or, they might eat something comforting before bedtime. These actions help them relax and calm down. But they also increase the risk of them developing a full-blown addiction. It also increases the chances that they will experience a bad reaction. Mixing GHB with other drugs and alcohol may cause them to overdose.
Talk to your doctor if you think you are using GHB as a coping mechanism. They can help you figure out what’s going on.
GHB is one of the most commonly abused drugs on university campuses today. It’s cheap and easy to get. Some students report that they take GHB just to fit in at parties. Others say that they take GHB to “get wasted.” Either way, GHB abuse can lead to serious health problems.
GHB is used recreationally by many young adults. Because it is so inexpensive, it’s not uncommon to find GHB in dorm rooms and student houses. Students who use GHB typically do so in combination with other substances, including alcohol. Mixing GHB with alcohol is extremely dangerous and can lead to coma and even death.
Young adults are most likely to use GHB recreationally. They usually start taking GHB because they want to have fun. They are looking for a high, or they might be trying to escape from reality.
Many teenagers who use GHB believe that GHB is harmless. Some teens even think that GHB is safe enough to give to friends. Others assume that GHB won’t affect them and that GHB is just another party drug.
Unfortunately, teens who use GHB are at serious risk for addiction. Teenagers who use GHB to escape reality are especially vulnerable to becoming addicted.
If you know someone who uses GHB, encourage them to seek treatment. Call us on 0800 999 1083 to discuss treatment options.
If you suspect that someone close to you is abusing GHB, there are things you can do to support them. You can help by encouraging the person to seek professional treatment.
You can also help by being supportive. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Ask how long they have been using GHB. Try to understand where the person is coming from. Be patient. Give the person space to work through their problems.
There are several telltale signs of GHB addiction. Some include:
If you notice any of the above symptoms in your loved one, talk to them about getting help.
Call us on 0800 999 1083 to discuss treatment options.
If your loved one admits to using GHB, they could be open to getting treatment.
Call us on 0800 999 1083 to discuss treatment options.
There are some instances where a person should seek immediate medical attention. For example, if someone experiences respiratory problems after taking GHB, this could be a sign of poisoning. If your loved one begins vomiting blood, this could be a symptom of internal bleeding.
If your loved one took too much GHB, they might experience seizures. Seizures can cause brain damage and death. It’s vital to seek medical assistance straight away. If you see these symptoms, call 999 immediately.
If you’re looking for help, many options are available to you.
People who suffer from GHB addiction tend to exhibit certain behaviours. For instance, they may show up late for work or school. They may not eat properly. They may neglect personal hygiene. They may also fail to pay bills on time.
These behaviours can indicate that a person suffers from GHB addiction. The first step toward diagnosing GHB addiction is determining if they exhibit these behaviours.
GHB addiction treatment usually involves detoxification followed by rehabilitation. Detoxification removes any trace of GHB from the body. This helps reduce withdrawal symptoms. After detoxification, your loved one will need to attend therapy sessions. Therapy teaches patients how to cope with life without GHB. It also helps them learn how to avoid triggers that might lead them back into addiction.
If you know someone who uses GHB, encourage them to seek treatment. Call us on 0800 999 1083 to discuss treatment options.
Inpatient GHB Rehab Centers
GHB addiction treatment programs usually require patients to stay overnight in a rehabilitation facility. During this time, patients will undergo physical examinations and tests to ensure that they no longer have any health issues related to GHB.
They will then participate in various therapies designed to help them overcome their addictions.
Outpatient GHB Rehab Programs
Patients struggling with GHB addiction but who do not need residential treatment can benefit from outpatient programs. Outpatient programs offer support groups, counselling and education about the dangers of GHB. They also teach patients how to cope with withdrawal symptoms.
Patients diagnosed with GHB addiction often require medication to treat withdrawal symptoms. MAT involves giving patients medicine to reduce cravings and ease withdrawal symptoms.
Medications commonly prescribed to treat GHB addiction include:
Anticonvulsant medications can help prevent seizures. Some anticonvulsants can also help prevent new seizures once someone stops using GHB.
Speak to us on 0800 999 1083 to discuss treatment options and to find the best alcohol rehab centre.
The best way to treat GHB addiction is a combination of rehab and therapy. A qualified therapist can guide you through the process of overcoming GHB addiction.
This form of therapy focuses on changing negative thought patterns and behaviours. It teaches patients to recognise and change destructive thinking processes. This helps them develop healthy coping skills and avoid resorting to drugs.
This method combines cognitive behavioural therapy with mindfulness meditation. It encourages patients to examine their thoughts and feelings without judgment. They learn to identify unhealthy emotions and replace them with healthier ones by doing so.
Group Therapy
In group therapy, patients discuss their problems together. They share experiences and support each other during difficult times.
Support Groups
Many people find that joining a 12-step group provides them with the support they need to overcome their addiction. These groups offer encouragement and guidance.
If you suspect that someone is suicidal, call the emergency services immediately. Do not leave them alone. Be supportive. Show concern for their well being.
GHB addiction is no joke. But it doesn’t have to ruin your life. There are things you can do to manage this disorder and keep yourself safe:
You could get tested regularly. Ask your doctor to test your blood levels for GHB. This way, you can catch any signs of withdrawal before they turn into full-blown symptoms.
You shouldn’t drink alcohol while taking GHB. Alcohol lowers your inhibitions and makes you more likely to overdo it. Abusing GHB and alcohol together can also lead to a fatal overdose.
You should monitor your usage. Keep track of how much GHB you consume daily.
You should seek support. Talk about your addiction with friends, family members, or loved ones. They may offer advice or encouragement. Therapy can help you learn coping strategies and deal with stress.
Try and stay away from people who use GHB. Avoid places where GHB is used. Avoid situations that involve the presence of drugs and alcohol – stay away from bars and clubs. Don’t drive after using GHB.
Exercise more frequently. Exercise helps you feel better physically and mentally. It also boosts your energy level.
Try to eat healthily. Eating well keeps you strong and gives you energy. It also reduces cravings and prevents binge eating.
Take care of yourself. Eat regular meals. Take breaks when you need them. Get enough sleep.
Talk to your doctor. Your doctor can prescribe medications that can help you cope with withdrawals.
Ask for help. Reach out to others who are going through similar problems. Find support groups online or in real life.
GHB addiction is a serious condition that requires immediate medical attention. Many people who suffer from GHB addiction relapse multiple times.
Recovery is possible, but it won’t happen overnight. It might take months or even years. That’s why it’s so important to follow up with your doctor and continue working on your recovery plan.
Here are some tips to help prevent GHB addiction relapses:
Don’t go through the process of recovery alone. Treatment providers can answer your questions. Get in touch with one today.
Call 0800 999 1083 today!
NHS Choices says that GHB abuse is becoming increasingly widespread. They state that GHB is often abused alongside alcohol and cocaine.
It warns that GHB abuse can cause severe health problems, including liver damage and heart failure. Users may experience nausea, vomiting, dizziness, confusion, hallucinations, and blackouts.
GHB is also linked to depression, anxiety, psychosis, and suicidal thoughts.
Many people believe that GHB is safe when used responsibly. However, this isn’t true. GHB abuse can result in serious health complications.
In England and Wales, overall population prevalence was low in 2011/2012, with 0.13% recorded in the Crime Survey for England and Wales (CSEW) [Home Office, 2012], up from 0.04% the previous year.
Mixing GHB with other depressants and sedatives like alcohol, opiates, tramadol, ketamine, and benzodiazepines is extremely risky.
When used with alcohol or other substances, potential negative effects vary from drowsiness to death (e.g., coma, respiratory failure, or cardiac arrest).
No matter where you live, there are drug and alcohol rehab options for you to discover. Treatment providers are waiting to answer your questions. Get started today.
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